Understand

Located in the northeast of the country, Kharkiv can be quite unfamiliar for western travelers due to the use of Cyrillic letters. To fully immerse yourself in this foreign city, it would be beneficial to learn how to read the Cyrillic alphabet before arriving in Ukraine. While many street signs now include Western-Latin letters, speaking the local language can still be a challenge. Kharkivians typically speak both Ukrainian and Russian, with a mix of the two languages commonly used. English proficiency among the locals, especially the younger generation, is limited.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pelmeni - Pelmeni are Ukrainian dumplings filled with meat, usually pork or beef, and seasoned with onions and spices. They are boiled and served hot, often accompanied by sour cream or butter.

Borscht - Borscht is a traditional Ukrainian soup made with beets, which give it its deep magenta color. It typically contains potatoes, cabbage, carrots, and onions, along with chunks of meat like beef or pork. Sometimes, a vegetarian version with mushrooms or tofu can be found.

Varenyky - Varenyky are a type of potato dumpling native to Ukraine. They are made using a mixture of mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs, then stuffed with ingredients like cheese, sauerkraut, or mushrooms. They can be boiled, fried, or baked and often served with sour cream, butter, or melted cheese.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing